Get Constructive Feedback & Stop Ghosting in Your Executive Interview Process

As an executive career coach, I’ve had countless conversations with brilliant marketing and sales professionals who find themselves stuck in the interview cycle. They invest time and energy in preparing for and attending interviews, only to be left in the dark, unsure of why they didn’t make the cut. Let's tackle this head-on and explore strategies to get the feedback you need and avoid the frustrating experience of being ghosted.

Why Feedback is Essential

Firstly, understanding why feedback is crucial can help you approach the process with the right mindset. Feedback provides you with:

1. Clarity: Knowing where you stand allows you to make informed decisions about your career path.
2. Improvement: Constructive criticism is a goldmine for personal and professional growth.
3. Confidence: Positive feedback reinforces your strengths and helps build your confidence for future opportunities.

Setting the Stage for Feedback

1. Express Your Interest and Openness:

From the outset, communicate your eagerness to receive feedback. During the interview, tell them you only have one ask outside of being hired; to get constructive feedback. Mention that you value constructive criticism and would appreciate any insights that can help you improve. Here’s how you can frame it:

"I am very excited about this opportunity and always want to improve. Any feedback you provide after the interview process helps me to be better and land my next role, regardless of the outcome.”??

2. Build Rapport:

Creating a genuine connection with your interviewers can make them more inclined to provide feedback. Engage with them beyond the standard Q&A, show curiosity about their experiences, and find common ground. When interviewers see you as a person, not just a candidate, they are more likely to follow up with you.

Following Up Without Being Pushy

1. Timing is Key:

If you haven’t heard back within the timeline they provided (or a week if no timeline was given), it’s perfectly fine to send a follow-up email. The key is to strike the right balance between being persistent and respectful.

2. Crafting the Perfect Follow-Up Email:

Here’s a template you can customize:

Subject: Follow-Up on Interview for [Position Name]

Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up regarding my interview on [Date] for the [Position Name] role. I remain very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to the team.
I understand that the decision-making process can take time. If possible, I would greatly appreciate any feedback you could share about my interview performance. Constructive insights are invaluable for my professional growth and will help me find my next position.
Thank you again for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]        

3. Multiple Points of Contact:

If you don’t receive a response from your initial contact, consider reaching out to another person involved in the hiring process, such as an HR representative or another interviewer. Always maintain a polite and professional tone.

Leveraging LinkedIn

1. Connecting with Interviewers:

After your interview, send a personalized connection request on LinkedIn. Mention your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and express your continued interest in the role.

2. Posting Thought Leadership Content:

Showcase your expertise by posting articles, sharing insights, and engaging with content relevant to your field. This keeps you top-of-mind for interviewers and demonstrates your commitment to learning.

3. Seeking Informational Interviews:

If the hiring process ends without feedback, request an informational interview with someone from the company. This can help you gain insights into the company’s culture and hiring practices, and build valuable connections for future opportunities.

When Feedback Doesn't Come

Not everything is under our control.? Despite your best efforts, there will be times when feedback isn’t provided or you're ghosted. Here’s how to handle it gracefully:

1. Self-Reflection:

After each interview, take time to reflect on your performance. Identify areas where you felt confident and areas where you stumbled. This self-assessment can be incredibly insightful.

2. Peer Feedback:

Discuss your interview experience with trusted colleagues or mentors. They can offer perspectives you might not have considered and help you prepare for future interviews.

3. Professional Coaching:

Investing in an executive coach can provide personalized feedback and strategies tailored to your career goals. As a coach, I work closely with my clients to dissect their interview experiences and develop actionable plans for improvement.

4. Always Close The Loop

It starts with you.? Make sure you are the change you wish to see in the world.? Get back to others with the answer, even if it’s something they don’t want to hear.? As Brene Brown says, “Clear is kind.” Be in integrity with yourself and others.? Show respect by closing the loop instead of ghosting.

Turning the Tide

The job market can be tough, but with the right strategies, you can turn every interview into a learning opportunity. Remember, the way you handle feedback requests and follow-ups speaks volumes about your professionalism and perseverance.

Final Thoughts:

To all of you creative, compassionate and driven executives out there, don’t let the silence of ghosting deter you from pursuing your dream role. Approach each opportunity with a mindset of growth and resilience. By actively seeking feedback and learning from every experience, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the executive job market and land the role that’s right for you.

Let’s stay connected and continue this journey of growth together. Feel free to reach out if you need personalized advice or coaching support. Your success is my passion.??

Until next time, keep being the STAR that you are and if you keep on hitting hurdles in your job search, please join my LinkedIn LIVE TOMORROW @ 11 AM CST - Overcome Job Search Hurdles: Your 20-Minute Guide to Landing Your Next Role" on 5/23/24.?

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